New Yorkers and other cold-weather cities have a leg-up on Angelenos when it comes to sophisticated outwear. Nothing elevates and refines a look like a well-designed coat.

With the weather heating up and the AC blasting everywhere I go, however, I’m more likely to need a coat indoors than outdoors, so this vest by Vince is the perfect way to add polish to an outfit without roasting.

On the beauty front, I’m having a 90’s powder-and-lipstick moment after watching the young(er) Gwyneth Paltrow in “Perfect Murder” the other night while channel surfing. It takes a lot for me to stray from my lip-liner-and-Aquaphor approach to lip color, but – damn – lipstick sure does pack a punch.

1. Fitted sheath dress by DVF is no longer available, but this dress is similar and on sale for 50% off. This silk jersey wrap dress is also fabulous and would look great under the vest. 2. Vince asymmetrical vest.  3. Beaded, embroidered clutch, Steven by Steve Madden. This more neutral clutch is a versatile alternative. 4. lipstick in Brave Red and lip pencil in Mahogany. 5. Sunglasses are Michael Kors and sold out, but these shades have a similar shape. 6. Shoes are Baldan and no longer available, but these sandals are similar.